What should you know about constant sinus headache?

Pressure around the forehead, cheeks, nose, or eyes may occur when nasal and sinus tissues are inflamed, particularly with congestion or an upper respiratory infection. Chronic sinusitis can produce facial pressure, blocked breathing, drainage, or reduced smell. Allergic rhinitis can create swelling and pressure alongside sneezing and itching. However, migraine may also cause pain in the face or around the eyes, sometimes with nausea, light sensitivity, or sensitivity to sound. Tension in the neck or jaw, dehydration, poor sleep, and frequent pain-medicine use are other possibilities.

The location does not prove that the sinuses are the source. Tell a clinician whether the pain is throbbing, pressure-like, one-sided, triggered by movement, or accompanied by fever, visual changes, vomiting, or neurological symptoms.

Keep a brief headache diary noting onset, location, severity, sleep, fluids, meals, screen use, nasal symptoms, and medicines. Rest in a quiet space, drink regularly, and avoid known triggers such as smoke or strong scents. Saline nasal spray may ease dryness or mucus when used as directed. A pharmacist or clinician can advise about suitable pain relief; follow the label and avoid combining products that contain the same ingredient. If headaches keep returning or pain medicine is needed often, arrange a review rather than repeatedly self-treating.

Book an appointment for a headache that is constant, changing, recurrent, or interfering with normal activities, especially when nasal symptoms continue. Get urgent help for a sudden severe headache, new weakness or numbness, confusion, fainting, a stiff neck, seizure, new vision loss, or repeated vomiting. Seek prompt care for swelling around the eye, severe facial pain with fever, or a headache after a significant injury. These features need timely assessment rather than home treatment.

Ask whether the pattern fits sinus inflammation, migraine, or another headache type. Ask which symptoms would require urgent care, whether your medicines could contribute, and whether examination of your nose, eyes, jaw, or nerves is needed.